Minnesota is a dream destination for families looking to combine fun, learning, and outdoor adventure. From hands-on museums to waterfall hikes and scenic small towns, there’s something for every age and interest. Here are five of the best family-friendly places to visit in Minnesota — perfect for weekend getaways or memory-making summer vacations.
Minneapolis–Saint Paul (The Twin Cities)
The Twin Cities are packed with attractions that are both educational and entertaining for kids of all ages. There is so much to see and do you can easily spend a week or more exploring or make a fun-packed weekend visit.
The Minnesota Children’s Museum in St. Paul is a hands-on paradise for younger kids, with interactive exhibits that encourage climbing, splashing, building, and pretend play. Be sure to pack an extra outfit in case the splashing gets out of hand. Your child will have so much fun they will definitely need a nap after your visit.
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory offers free admission, though a donation is appreciated, and a wide variety of animals, from giraffes and polar bears to sea lions. Spend the day exploring the park, feeding the Sea Lions, and grab a snack while strolling through the big cat area. The surrounding park has playgrounds, a mini amusement park (Como Town), and picnic areas. Be sure to bring your sunscreen and a good pair of shoes, you will be exploring all day.
The Science Museum of Minnesota includes dinosaur skeletons, a giant astronaut suit, and an Omnitheater with rotating kid-friendly documentaries! Be sure to look for the musical stairs. There is also a cafeteria where you’ll find a giant astronaut!
Mall of America in Bloomington is more than a mall—it’s a family amusement destination with Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Aquarium, a mirror maze, and Crayola Experience. You can easily spend the whole day here and never step foot in a shop.
Explore the outdoors with a family bike ride around Lake Harriet or a paddleboat on Lake Calhoun (Bde Maka Ska).
Pro tip: Plan your trip around one of the many seasonal festivals or outdoor movie nights in the parks!
North Shore of Lake Superior
The North Shore is perfect for unplugging and soaking up the beauty of nature together.
Start your trip at Duluth, where kids can throw rocks in the lake and watch massive ships pass under the Aerial Lift Bridge.
Drive along Scenic Highway 61 to discover state parks like:
- Gooseberry Falls State Park, where families can hike short trails to multiple waterfalls.
- Split Rock Lighthouse, a fun history stop with stunning lake views and a visitor center.
- Tettegouche State Park, which has rocky shores and dramatic cliffs for adventurous hikers.
Stop in Grand Marais, a cozy harbor town known for art galleries, quirky shops, and kid-approved donut stops like World’s Best Donuts.
Great for road trips: lots of short hikes, scenic stops, and picnic spots. Autumn offers amazing fall colors, while summer is great for swimming and campfires.
Itasca State Park
Home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River, Itasca is a magical place for kids to literally walk across this iconic river.
Families can rent bikes, paddleboats, canoes, and even pontoons to explore the park’s pristine waters.
Hike the Wilderness Drive, a scenic one-way loop with pull-offs and easy trails suitable for younger kids.
Climb the historic Aiton Heights Fire Tower for panoramic views.
Stay in cozy lakeside cabins, bring an RV, or camp under the stars.
The Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center features interactive exhibits about wildlife, history, and conservation.
Fun fact: You can earn a Junior Ranger badge here! Don’t forget to pick up the activity book at the visitor center.
Duluth
Duluth is a great city for family fun, combining nature, science, and lots of kid-friendly activities.
Visit the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, where kids can climb on historic trains, then take a ride on the North Shore Scenic Railroad.
Explore the Great Lakes Aquarium, where kids can see otters, sturgeon, turtles, and even touch sea stars.
Walk or bike along the Lakewalk, a paved trail that runs along the lake with easy access to beaches, lighthouses, and playgrounds.
Check out Enger Tower for city views, and let kids run around the beautiful surrounding gardens.
In winter, families can enjoy skiing, tubing, and snowboarding at Spirit Mountain.
Bonus: Canal Park is full of family-friendly restaurants and ice cream shops, perfect for a lakeside treat.
Lanesboro & the Root River Trail
Looking for a peaceful small-town vibe with lots of active fun? Lanesboro is a hidden gem in southeastern Minnesota’s Bluff Country.
Rent bikes and ride the Root River Trail, a scenic, flat, and mostly shaded trail perfect for all ages.
Stop in nearby towns like Whalan for mini golf and pie, or Preston for trout fishing and parks.
Visit Mystery Cave State Park, where families can take guided underground tours with cool rock formations.
Explore local ice cream shops, art galleries, and riverside picnic areas.
Stay in rustic cabins, budget motels, or family-friendly B&Bs (some offer game rooms and outdoor space for kids).
Tip: Bring swimsuits in summer — there are safe spots for tubing and wading in the river!
Whether your family is into nature, science, history, or just running around outside, Minnesota has you covered. With tons of free and low-cost activities, friendly communities, and places to relax and explore, it’s the perfect place to create memories that last.
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